Although not usually thought as a seaside destination, Tuscany is, nonetheless, home to some of the most magnificent sugary shores and a pristine shoreline adorned by cobalt waters, deep blue sea, sensational landscapes, wild nature, steep cliffs, great food, verdant pine forests, picturesque coves, sports, and breathtaking views. This instantly makes it the perfect place for a quick weekend escapade or your summer holidays. 

So, apart from the fantastic art towns, scenic hills, amazing countryside, and impressive, ancient look-out towers, Tuscany is a multi-versed Mediterranean destination that can please all tastes, desires, needs, and desires and fulfil all sorts of dreams! If finding a piece of sandy heaven in Tuscany is a must this year, then this guide with the top north-to-south beaches will tick your boxes just fine. 

Versilia – Enchanting with its subtle allure 

The provinces of Lucca and Carrara are home to Versilia – one of the most popular Italian coastal areas, and where the infamous and internationally acclaimed Supertuscan Wines are produced. Expect spectacular scenery welcoming you to the northern Tuscany coast and the imposing Apuan Alps as your gorgeous backdrop. Some of the most popular shores are in the Viareggio area, which is a place also widely favoured for its vibrant nightlife and family-friendly amenities. Here, you will find plenty of high-end resorts and luxury villas alongside fine sand and transparent, calm waters for the little ones to enjoy! 

Of the many beaches worth a visit, a shore you definitely can’t afford to miss is:

Costa degli Etruschi

If you continue driving towards southern Livorno, you’ll soon reach the scenic Costa degli Etruschi. The road is, indeed, striking, offering marvellous views of the countryside and steep cliffs overlooking the shimmering archipelago. And, somewhere along the way, you’ll see the peaceful and tranquil Quercianella tucked comfortably amidst Mediterranean scrubs and pine forests. 

Now, you can choose to either explore the rocky and steep coastline that stretches up to Castioncello or move past it and pamper yourself with more sandy and flat options. In any case, expect beaches bearing a European Blue Flag and picturesque landscapes featuring small villages, Instagrammable coves, alleys winding in the lush forests, pebble creeks, and, of course, an absolutely heart-stopping bay with crystalline waters and one of the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany – Baia del Quercetano! 

The Maremma – An inviting earthy heaven 

The Maremma is probably the Tuscany area with the most uncrowded and picture-perfect beaches that welcome travellers to a wonderful natural setting and unforgettable, relaxing and chilled experiences. Some of the must-visit ones are:

Golfo di Baratti 

The southernmost part of Castigliocello is home to a ravishing gulf, Golfo di Baratti, which greets visitors with scenic views of its fab sandy beach, along with the pine forests and the dunes that frame it so harmoniously. While here, we strongly suggest you visit the Etruscan necropolis, as it is one of the most significant ones in Tuscany, dating to the 3rd century BC. Another local site definitely worth visiting is the captivating Populonia that occupies a pristine location atop the hill over the gulf. Besides the archaeological park, you can also see the ancient acropolis and the imposing sea-facing castle. As for the more romantic souls out there, taking the path to Buca delle Fate will reward them with a stunning bay featuring lovely seascapes. 

Cala Violina

After you pass the idyllic Follonica and Piombino seaside regions (still heading south), the suggestive and wild cove of Cala Violina awaits to fill your days with exciting moments. Enclosed by two headlands, this Maremma attraction also hosts an unspoilt, fine sand shore that reveals itself after a pleasurable 4-kilometre trail through enchanting lands, with bewildering views over the shoreline. 

Note: Another small paradise near Cala Violina is Castiglione della Pescaia, which can make you fall in love with it with its top-tier bathing establishments, clear waters, and world-class services. Perfect for both families with kids and couples alike! 

Marina di Alberese

Set within the delightful Natural Park of Maremma (if you have some time, you won’t regret visiting this totally bewitching 9,000-hectare oasis), Marina di Alberese will satisfy you with its natural terrain, lush green lands, and golden sand beach. You can pamper yourself with its charms by riding a bike and following the lovely 8-kilometre bike trail that will get you past verdant meadows which will most surely cut your breath with their allure. And, given the wild nature of this coast, don’t be surprised if you encounter wild boars, foxes, and other wild animals! 

Monte Argentario 

Here lies a lake that is beyond beautiful – the Orbetello Laguna. Almost bordering with the Lazio province, the Monte Argentario region is primarily a rocky promontory with engaging coves, tantalising bays, and azure waters. In the area surrounding it, you can spoil your eyes with quaint fishing villages (Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole) that have rightfully become a pole of attraction for tourists and locals alike for their beguiling views and enthralling ambiance. If there is room here for a couple of suggestions, then the sand dunes-adorned La Feniglia and sugary Giannella beaches are certainly not to be missed. 

The Tuscany Islands 

If you make it all the way to Porto Santo Stefano, then do consider hopping on the boat and hop off the fabulous Giglio island. From there, you could finish your adventure by sailing to the other three Tuscany islands, Giannutri, Pianosa, and Elba islands, and enjoy the turquoise waters of all these spectacular destinations. The scenery is incredible, dotted with beautiful coves, extraordinary, sandy beaches, and precious sea panoramas. Some shores to add to your itinerary? Cavoli and Fetovaia – you can thank us later! 

Final Thoughts 

Irrespective of the place you choose to spend your summer holidays in or the seaside areas you decide to visit while in Tuscany, this dream land will always find a way to seduce and hypnotise you. What is even more majestic about this blessed place is that it combines multiple experiences which can be lived down to the bare bones with relative ease. You simply select the elegant Tuscany villa, stylish farmhouse, chic cottage or exquisite Kinglike mansion that answers your needs and requirements the most and then let yourself dive into absolute luxury, utmost privacy, exclusive amenities, VIP services, and the exciting adventures that undeniably lie ahead.